Mind Maps As Learning Aids
This is part 2 in a series of posts highlighting how mind mapping can be used in education. In the second post we’re going to look at how mind mapping can be used as a learning aid. Part 1 of the series, “Mind Maps As Teaching Aids”, can be found here.
Mind maps are great for all types of uses, but have you considered it’s use as a learning aid? Of course by default all mind maps are learning aids, are they not?
A mind maps goal is to convey information in the most simplest and visually appealing way possible. It is through this conveying of information that we can learn something of a subject or topic. There are two areas in learning where mind mapping can help: note taking and revision.
Note Taking
Whether your listening or reading, taking notes is a great way to record the information you require instead of simply just trying to remember it!
Mind mapping as a note-taking method works well because your concentrating your efforts on noting keywords and ideas, instead of trying to write down whole sentences. Mind maps are all about keywords and images, which means that we create a more informative set of notes by simply noting the keywords and linking them using associations.
Revision
When it comes to revision, I always found standard linear notes as chore to use. By using mind maps you can reduce the amount of time you need for revision. After taking your notes in the form of a mind map review them frequently for the time immediately after the notes were taken. In time, you should then be reviewing them less and less frequently.
The Benefits
As a learning aid, mind mapping has 2 key benefits over traditional learning methods.
- Visualisation – Through the use of keywords and imagery, we get a better picture of a subject and it’s key topics. They also give us the whole picture, so it’s easier to get an understanding of a subject when you see how keywords within a subject are associated through mind map branches.
- Enjoyment – By using colour and images, you can create a fun and relaxed environment in which to learn.
Get Learning!
So the next time you have something to learn then why not try using mind mapping? You’ll enjoy the learning experience in a whole new fun way and you’ll have a deeper, more visual understanding of the subject.
In the next part of the series, we’ll be looking at how mind maps can be used as examination aids.
Related Articles:
- Mind Maps As Examination Aids
- Mind Maps As Teaching Aids
- Mind Map Recipe: Mind Mapping a Book
- Sketch Notes: The Quick Way To Mind Mapping
Mind Maps As Examination Aids | MindMapSwitch on December 15th, 2008
[...] This is the third and final part in a series of posts highlighting how mind mapping can be used in education. In the third and final post of the series, we’re going to look at how mind mapping can be used as part of examinations. Part 2 of the series, “Mind Maps As Learning Aids”, can be found here. [...]